NGA VS TAN: Match Preview, Team News, Date And Kick-off Time For AFCON Qualifier Match

According to a report by BBC Sport on Thursday November 12, 2026, Nigeria welcome Tanzania to Uyo on Friday, knowing another disappointing result could complicate their hopes of reaching the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, despite entering the encounter as favourites.

The Super Eagles currently occupy second position in Group L, three points behind leaders Guinea-Bissau. Tanzania remain bottom, although their status as tournament co-hosts has already secured qualification.

Missing out on the 2026 World Cup through defeat against DR Congo in the African playoffs has increased pressure on Nigeria to avoid another major international disappointment.

Eric Chelle’s men started their qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory against Madagascar before suffering a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Guinea-Bissau, leaving their qualification ambitions uncertain.

Franculino Dju, Mama Balde and Alvaro Djalo scored against Nigeria, handing the Super Eagles a damaging defeat that exposed their defensive weaknesses during the encounter.

Nigeria have managed just one victory across their previous five international matches, recording two draws and two defeats. They also failed to keep a clean sheet throughout that period.

Their recent results include a 3-3 comeback draw against Russia in an international friendly, highlighting the defensive improvements Chelle must address before Friday’s important meeting.

The Nigerian manager has reportedly emphasised the importance of collecting maximum points from both encounters against Tanzania, with the return fixture scheduled to take place in Zanzibar four days later.

However, the Super Eagles can draw confidence from their home performances, having won their previous three matches at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, including September’s victory over Madagascar.

Tanzania arrive with less pressure because of their automatic qualification as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda. Nevertheless, Miguel Angel Gamondi’s team will hope to secure their first-ever victory against Nigeria.

The Taifa Stars have drawn twice and lost four times in their previous six meetings with Nigeria, including a 2-1 defeat during the opening match of the 2025 AFCON.

Their recent performances have also been disappointing, with Tanzania recording only one victory in their last fifteen matches across all competitions, alongside five draws and nine defeats.

Their only success during that period came against Macao, whom they defeated 6-0 in March during the FIFA Series.

Tanzania began their qualifying campaign with a 2-0 defeat against Guinea-Bissau before drawing 1-1 against Madagascar, leaving them without a victory after two matches.

Nigeria will be without Victor Osimhen, who is recovering from knee surgery, while Samuel Chukwueze remains unavailable following his hip operation.

Semi Ajayi has joined the squad after experiencing cramp during Hull City’s defeat against Arsenal, although his fitness requires assessment. Moses Usor has also retained his place despite reports of a minor injury concern.

George Ilenikhena, who scored against Madagascar on his international debut, has been omitted because of fitness concerns, according to Chelle.

Taiwo Awoniyi and Akor Adams could lead Nigeria’s attack in a preferred 4-4-2 diamond formation, although Tolu Arokodare provides another attacking option.

Maduka Okoye and Kelechi Iheanacho are notable absentees, while Francis Uzoho returns to the squad and Mubarak Suleiman receives his first senior international call-up.

Meanwhile, Tanzania will miss Clement Mzize and Dickson Job, who withdrew because of injuries. Iddi Nado has been selected as a replacement.

Captain Mbwana Samatta was also excluded from the 24-man squad, with Aishi Manula expected to start in goal and Simon Msuva potentially leading the attack.

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